Eschew Bitter Politics, Gov Diri Urges Bayelsa Leaders, Calls for Unity, Development Ahead of 2027 Elections

Governor Senator Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has once again appealed to the political class to eschew bitterness, acrimony and political violence, emphasizing that politics should be rooted in development, unity and brotherliness rather than division and hostility. His remarks come as part of broader efforts to steady the political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 general election. 

Speaking on Sunday during the third memorial thanksgiving service for his late father, Pa Abraham Joseph Michael Diri, at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Sampou, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, Governor Diri highlighted the significant synergy among the three arms of government in Bayelsa — executive, legislature and judiciary — which he said has fostered peace and good governance in the state. 

Governor Diri said Bayelsa has entered an era of political unity, stressing that politics should encourage development and solidarity, not animosity or violence. He encouraged politicians to draw lessons from his cordial relationship with Chief David Lyon, his rival in the 2019 governorship election, saying that excessive hostility during campaigns could leave long-lasting scars and hamper future collaboration. 

“Let this be the way politics is played in Bayelsa State. We have no reason to abuse each other the way I see a lot of politicians doing,” Diri said, further noting that critics who claim he errs by working with rivals misunderstand his commitment to unity. 

He also commended Lyon’s presence at the memorial service, describing his conduct as a fine example of political decency. 

In addition to urging political civility, Governor Diri appealed for spiritual guidance, urging leaders to seek God’s direction in the political process. Earlier reports show he has consistently called for prayerful reflection by political actors, reinforcing that a thoughtful and peaceful political environment would be more beneficial for the state’s growth. 

Diri further praised the harmonious working relationship among the state’s three arms of government, stating that cooperation does not mean the absence of disagreements, but the ability to resolve differences amicably for the welfare of the people. 

He particularly lauded Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere for what he described as effective representation that has brought development to communities such as Akassa Kingdom in Brass Local Government Area. The governor also thanked Chief Judge Justice Matilda Ayemieye for her support, urging continued cooperation. 

The governor’s comments also resonate with earlier calls by a range of Bayelsa stakeholders for unity and peace. For instance, in past gatherings, Diri had urged political actors to close ranks and work together for the state’s development instead of engaging in divisive politics. 

Representatives from different political spheres were in attendance at the service, including Senators Konbowei Benson, Sunday Katung and Degi Eremienyo, Dr. Fred Agbedi, former deputy governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), Heads of Civil Service, commissioners, local government chairmen and other government officials. 

In his sermon, Bishop Funkuro Amgbare of the Northern Izon Anglican Diocese described the late Pa Diri as a devoted Christian and justice-loving teacher who raised his children in faith and service. 

Governor Diri also used the occasion to thank the public for their support and solidarity, expressing gratitude on behalf of his family and the St. Peter’s Anglican Church community.